County Offering Lead Renovation Classes
Poughkeepsie…The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH), in partnership with CertRebel, is offering free EPA Lead Certification Classes for residents and contractors to learn lead safe work practices for home renovations. Classes began today, with the first session at capacity. Classes will continue to be held monthly at Nubian Directions located at 248 Main Street in Poughkeepsie. Registration is required and can be made at CertRebel.com or by calling 646-470-7119. A full list of available dates can be found on CertRebel.com.
Many homes built before 1978 contain lead-based paint which may cause concern. Effective April 2010, EPA’s Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule requires that firms performing renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, childcare facilities, and pre-schools built before 1978 must be certified by EPA (or an EPA-authorized state), use certified renovators who are trained by EPA-approved training providers and follow lead-safe work practices.
Lead is damaging when it enters the body. Common renovation, repair, and painting activities that disturb lead-based paint include sanding, cutting, replacing windows, and more. These acts can create hazardous lead dust and chips which can be harmful to adults and children. Children younger than 6 years are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning as it can affect their growth, behavior, and ability to learn. It is also harmful to pregnant women and their developing babies. Home repairs that create even a small amount of lead dust are enough to poison a child and put a family at risk. These classes discuss how to safely renovate older homes and are especially beneficial to “do-it-yourselfers”, ensuring safe renovation practices.
Classes are open to Dutchess, Orange, Putnam or Ulster residents looking to receive the EPA Certification in Lead-Safe Work Practices including:
• Homeowners of homes built before 1978;
• Home improvement contractors;
• In-house maintenance staff;
• Painters;
• Plumbers;
• Carpenters;
• Electricians ;and
• Other specialty trades
The 8-hour certification class is a $225 value. Classes are being offered free of charge through Childhood Lead Poisoning Primary Prevention Program grant dollars from the New York State Department of Health.
For additional details, residents can view the class flyer online.
To learn more about these classes and to see the full schedule of upcoming class dates see CertRebel.com. See more information on lead safe practices online.
